Every Dog in the Neighborhood uplifts the concepts of data collection and math for civic engagement. The Mathical Committee loves the book’s storyline, its memorable, multi-generational characters, and the blend of math and social concepts. In addition to using data to answer questions, the story provides opportunities to make pet comparisons: dogs and pets that aren’t dogs, old dogs, young dogs, big and little dogs, dogs with funny haircuts, and dogs who are the eyes for people who cannot see. Children may find themselves grabbing a clipboard and pen to conduct their own community survey after reading this entertaining story. – Carolyn Pfister, Mathical Selection Committee
Louis really wants a dog, but his Grandma insists, “There are enough dogs in the neighborhood already.” While Louis disagrees, he realizes he needs more information to support his argument: so he sets out to figure out how many dogs live in the neighborhood.
While Grandma sets out on errands of her own, Louis starts knocking on doors. He meets big dogs and little dogs, dogs with jobs, dogs who eat socks, and dogs who are much missed. (He also meets cats, and birds, and one very big python, but those don’t count!)
By the time he gets home Louis is ready to tell Grandma just how many dogs are in the neighborhood. . . . But Grandma thinks he just might have missed one. A particularly loveable dog. A dog who needs a new home.
Maybe there are enough dogs in the neighborhood after all.
– Book description from publisher
Other Resources
- TeachingBooks.net book page
- Educator’s Guide (PDF, from publisher)